Building Inspector / Plan Reviewer

University Of Michigan; Ann Arbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Michigan is seeking a Building Inspector / Plan Reviewer to ensure compliance with Michigan Building Codes and related standards campus-wide. The role combines field inspections with formal plan review, with approximately 70% on-site inspections and 30% plan review.

Expect travel to various University properties, including locations outside Ann Arbor. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, 7+ years of relevant experience, and the ability to obtain Michigan

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Seven+ years in building inspection, engineering, architecture, or related construction supervision.
• Ability to obtain State of Michigan certification within 3 months.
• Ability to read and evaluate architectural/construction plans for code compliance.
• Proficient with state/local codes and regulations; able to navigate computer systems.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for on-site inspections.

Responsibilities

• Inspect sites/buildings to verify code compliance per Michigan Building Codes.
• Perform final inspections for newly constructed/renovated spaces.
• Consult on policy questions, code interpretations, and inspection concerns.
• Coordinate with contractors, architects, engineers, and project managers.
• Prepare and submit daily inspection reports.
• Travel to project sites across University properties, including non-Ann Arbor locations.
• Review plans before construction to ensure accuracy and code compliance.
• Document plan-review findings and communicate corrections to stakeholders.
• Maintain records of reviews, interpretations, and determinations.

Skills

Blueprint interpretation

Code compliance

Reading & interpreting plans

Computer systems proficiency

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

Michigan certification in trade of inspection

State of Michigan building inspector license (desired)

ICC certification (Plans Examiner)

Job description

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) promotes health, safety, and environmental compliance throughout the University of Michigan campus community.

Under general supervision, the Building Inspector / Plan Reviewer performs building code inspections and reviews construction plans to ensure compliance with applicable local and state codes, related ordinances, and University requirements. The position also audits management records for compliance with departmental policies and procedures.

This role combines field inspection responsibilities with a formally dedicated plan review assignment. A minimum of 30% of the incumbent's time will be allocated to building plan review, with the remaining time dedicated to field inspections and related duties. The Building Code Official may adjust this allocation based on project volume and departmental needs.

Responsibilities*

Building Inspection - Approximately 70%

• Inspect construction sites and buildings to verify compliance with Michigan Building Codes and other applicable requirements.
• Perform final inspections for new and renovated spaces that were vacated during construction.
• Consult with the Building Code Official regarding policy questions, code interpretations, and inspection-related concerns.
• Confer with contractors, architects, engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders regarding construction codes and building plans.
• Prepare and submit accurate daily reports for all inspections performed.
• Upon approval from the Building Code Official, provide Certificates of Use and Occupancy for construction and renovation projects.
• Travel to project sites across University properties, including locations outside the Ann Arbor campus, as assigned.

Building Plan Review - Minimum 30%

• Review construction plans, blueprints, specifications, and site layouts before construction to verify that documents are accurate, complete, and compliant with state and local codes, regulations, and applicable U-M Design Guidelines.
• Evaluate plans for new construction and alterations, identifying code deficiencies and required corrections before permit issuance.
• Document plan review findings and clearly communicate required corrections to architects, engineers, contractors, and project managers.
• Coordinate with the Building Code Official and, when required, EHS departmental stakeholders on plan review matters requiring specialized input.
• Verify that plans address accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ICC A117.1.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of plan reviews, correspondence, code interpretations, and determinations.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain current knowledge of building codes, construction methods, materials, and regulations affecting inspection and plan review practices.
• Attend required code-update courses and maintain applicable certifications.
• Use and navigate complex computer systems to document inspections, reviews, and related activities.

Required Qualifications*

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Seven or more years of experience as a building inspector, engineer, architect, construction superintendent, foreperson, or competent mechanic responsible for construction work.
• Ability to obtain State of Michigan certification in the trade in which inspections will be conducted within the first three months of employment.
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and evaluate architectural and construction plans, blueprints, and specifications for code compliance.
• Working knowledge of applicable state and local building codes and regulations.
• Ability to effectively navigate complex computer systems.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation for on-site inspections.

Desired Qualifications*

• Current State of Michigan building inspector license and attendance at applicable code-update courses.
• Ten or more years of related experience inspecting construction work in commercial or industrial settings.
• Demonstrated experience conducting building plan reviews in a code-enforcement, regulatory, or municipal environment.
• International Code Council (ICC) certification as a Certified Building Inspector or Plans Examiner.
• Considerable knowledge of standard construction practices, processes, tools, materials, and equipment used in commercial and industrial buildings.
• Working knowledge of accessibility requirements under the ADA and ICC A117.1.
• Experience applying structural engineering concepts.

Why Work at Michigan?

Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care - that's the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It's adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off, including maternity and paternal leaves
• A retirement plan that provides immediate vesting and two-for-one matching contributions after 12 months
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision plans
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

Work Schedule

This position follows a Monday-Friday schedule during daytime hours. Additional hours may be required to complete time-sensitive projects or meet operational needs.

Additional Information

This position includes both office-based plan review and field-based inspection duties. The successful candidate must be able to travel regularly to construction and renovation sites throughout University properties, including sites outside the Ann Arbor campus.

Facilities & Operations is a positive organization dedicated to the principles of being respectful, collaborative, solutions-based, and proactive.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checksare performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.The review and selection process maybegin as early as the eighth day after posting.Thisopening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.